Ketchup is a household staple condiment and one of the most popular sauces given that it is so versatile. Commonly a condiment used with chips, ketchup can be found in nearly every household cupboard. It already has a very long shelf life but this can be extended even further?
Can You Freeze Ketchup?
Yes, you can freeze ketchup indefinitely. People can freeze ketchup for many different reasons. Some may wish to freeze it because they have bought it in bulk, others because they use it so sparingly and they want to keep their fridge clear of condiments.
Do Does Ketchup freeze well? Yes
Can you refreeze Ketchup? Yes
How to Freeze Ketchup
Similar to most food products, ketchup can be prone to freezer burn so proper preparation is essential for preserving its delicious flavour and keeping it at the right texture.
If you are freezing ketchup, either store-bought or homemade, in small portions, simply follow the steps below for perfectly frozen ketchup:
- Make Ketchup
If you are wanting to freeze homemade ketchup, make this according to your favourite recipe and allow it to cool completely. - Portion Individually
Pour or squeeze the ketchup into ice cube trays, making sure each slot is filled equally. - Freeze
Slot the ice cube tray into the freezer and allow to freeze for 1-2 hours until the cubes are solid. - Bag
Take the ice cube tray out of the freezer and pop out the now frozen cubes of ketchup. Put them one by one into a freezer safe bag or container. - Label and Freeze
Label your bag or container and then place back into the freezer for as long as needed.
If you have bought a plastic or squeezy bottle of ketchup and want to freeze them in the bottle, just place the entire bottle in the freezer and leave it. There is no need for any additional prep if you want to freeze ketchup this way.
3 Tips for Freezing Ketchup
Now you know how to freeze it, we’ve got our 3 top tips which we strongly recommend following when freezing ketchup to have the best results:
Avoid Glass Bottles
Ketchup can be frozen in its original packaging, as long as it is a plastic or squeezy bottle. Ketchup has a high water content, meaning it will expand as it freezes which could cause glass bottles to explode in the freezer.
Use Silicone Ice Cube Tray
Some ice cube trays can be a bit fiddly when it comes to removing the ice cubes, but silicone ones are fantastic. You can simply bend the tray slightly and the cubes will just pop out. No need for banging it on the table or any mess.
Consider the Fridge
Unless you have bought ketchup in bulk or use it very infrequently, it could be best to store ketchup in the fridge. It will last up to a year in the fridge and you can use it in even smaller amounts than if it were frozen.
How Long Can You Freeze Ketchup?
When stored correctly, ketchup will last indefinitely in the freezer. It is such a simple freezing process and there is nothing within the ingredients that would cause the ketchup to go bad.
You Can Freeze Ketchup Indefinitely
How Do You Defrost Ketchup?
Defrosting ketchup is just as simple as it is to freeze it. Just take out your desired amount of frozen ketchup cubes, place them in a bowl and leave them on your kitchen counter to thaw.
This should take approximately 1-2 hours. There is a chance the ketchup could be a bit watery or have separated during thawing, but just give it a quick mix together again and it should be as good as new.
The same method can be used if you are defrosting ketchup that has been frozen in a plastic bottle, though the thaw time may be slightly longer.
Can You Refreeze Ketchup?
Whilst it is never advisable to refreeze any food that has been frozen and thawed already, you can technically do this with ketchup.
Constant refreezing may cause the ketchup to become extra watery or runny, so beware of how frequently you do this.
Does Ketchup Freeze Well?
Yes, ketchup is one of the best condiments to freeze and it will last indefinitely when done correctly.
Given that it is such a common household staple, buying it in bulk could save you money and now you have a great way to store it without taking up space in your fridge or cupboards.